The Lions secondary has been ravaged by injuries. Rookie Bill Bentley is out for the season. Louis Delmas is down. Drayton Florence hasn't played since Week 2. Jacob Lacey missed two games before he returned last week. Routt would add a veteran presence to the mix, but some have questioned his willingness to play physical.

The Lions unit, however, hasn't been as awful as it's been in the past. Detroit ranks No. 8 in pass defense, allowing just 214.2 yards per game. The questions center on Routt.

How much does the eight-year veteran have left in the tank? Routt is only 29 years old, but has been cut by the Raiders and Chiefs in the last 10 months. Those aren't exactly teams overflowing with talent. Routt would bring size (he's 6-foot-1, 195 pounds) to a smallish Lions secondary.

The Lions certainly aren't in a position to ignore potential talent. A meeting can't hurt.